standoff
UK: ˈstændɒf | US: ˈstændɔːf
n. 1. A situation in which neither side in a conflict can gain an advantage; a deadlock.
n. 2. A confrontation or contest where opponents remain at a distance, refusing to yield.
n. 3. (Sports) A tie or draw in a competitive event.
The word "standoff" emerged in the mid-19th century, combining "stand" (from Old English standan, meaning "to maintain an upright position") and "off" (from Old English of, meaning "away"). It originally described a physical distance maintained between opposing forces, later evolving metaphorically to denote any僵持或对峙局面. The logic is straightforward: "standing apart" reflects refusal to engage or让步, leading to a stalemate.
The tense standoff between the two nations lasted for weeks.
Police negotiated to end the armed standoff peacefully.
The chess game ended in a standoff after neither player could checkmate.
A standoff ensued when the protesters refused to disperse.
The debate turned into a verbal standoff with no resolution.